California residents will vote on four bond measures in their upcoming midterm election, including one that could have a significant impact on pediatric healthcare in the state, according to the Los Angeles Times.
Proposition four, the children's hospital bond, would generate $1.5 billion for pediatric care in the state. If approved, 72 percent of the funds will go toward construction projects at eight nonprofit private pediatric hospitals; 18 percent will fund similar initiatives at five University of California pediatric facilities; and 10 percent will be offered as grants to nearly 150 eligible hospitals that provide dedicated children's healthcare services.
Supporters of the measure say the funding is necessary because much care in the state is paid for by MediCal, California's Medicaid program, which has lower reimbursement rates than other insurers. Renovations are necessary at many facilities in order to comply with regulations to make them earthquake-resistant.
The initiative would cost California $80 million per year over the next 35 years.